Myrtle Beach needs better lifeguard protection

I am concerned about the lifeguard service from Ocean Lakes Campground Myrtle Beach Resort – Lakewood campground north to the state park. I’ve owned a place at Myrtle Beach Resort since September 2008 and spend considerable time there.

In my youth, summers 1968 through 1971, I was an ocean lifeguard at Ortley Beach, Ocean County, Toms River, New Jersey.

I’ve witnessed empty lifeguard chairs at all time of the day. At lease one guard should be in a chair at all times, head and eyes concentrating on people in the water. I’m concerned for the safety of children and adults.

On May 30, I was swimming in the ocean in front of Ocean Lakes. While I was walking out of the water toward the shore, several people on the beach saw a shark’s fin in front of me. Neither lifeguard stand reacted or saw or alerted each other to have people leave the water.

Never miss a local story.

Sign up today for unlimited digital access to our website, apps, the digital newspaper and more.